As I start my third year at SUNY Oswego, I have found that the one thing that keeps my motivation elevated is change. Whether I choose to study in the library instead of my room or email a club inquiring to know more, I am always seeking change outside of my daily routine. And if I could provide any advice to our incoming freshmen, I would say: seek change!

In whatever capacity your brain will allow, find something in your routine and change it. If it scares you, it is probably one of the things that will contribute to your academic and social growth the most. Above all, find comfort in change. Accept it. Make peace with change and face your fears.

While this rings true for social activities, like parties and clubs, it is also true for your academic track. If there is something that you are even slightly interested in, find a minor that aligns with that interest and talk to your advisor about putting it on your schedule. You never know how well that interest can transfer into your future career or become your career! Do not be afraid to keep changing your major/minor until you find something that resonates with your interest. You have a full four years to find what suits you best.

As long as you plan ahead and make sure you are aware of what classes are needed for each major, you can mix and match as much as needed.

However, before you can implement these modes of change it is important for you to manage your time efficiently. I know how cliche it is for you to hear about time management, but it is a very important step in our college careers. Find the time to organize your assignments into manageable pieces for you to digest and the changes can slowly be added into your schedule afterward! Be sure to keep track of your promises to certain clubs and organizations so you are not breaking promises due to time conflicts.

Make this year yours and stay on top of everything so you are not stressed!

Have a magnificent semester! And do not forget to let your fear lead you into small changes that benefit you academically and personally.